A Transformative Painting Journey in Tuscany
Nestled amidst the breathtaking Tuscan hills, this immersive 12-day painting experience is designed to inspire and transform.
Guided by esteemed instructors—Nic Thurman, Kristine Onsrud, and Melisa Calabria—you’ll explore timeless painting techniques in a stunning setting.
Elevate your skills while connecting with like-minded artists and experiencing the beauty of Tuscany.
What You'll Do at the Tuscany Landscape Painting Workshop
Learn From Professional Painters
Receive hands-on feedback from master painters who will share their expertise in classical techniques. Whether you’re refining your skills or learning new approaches, this is your chance to grow as a painter under expert mentorship.
Paint Landscapes From Life
Immerse yourself in the timeless craft of landscape painting. Work in the rolling hills to capture the essence of Tuscany.
Explore Tuscany And So Much More!
Embark on an inspiring day trip, walk the enchanting streets, visit iconic landmarks, and enjoy culinary delights.
What Our Participants Say
"I’ll cherish the connections I’ve made here. The food was like a five-star hotel, the teachers were wonderful, and the atmosphere—you’re in a castle in Tuscany, I mean, how much better can it get?"
-Lynne G, Canada
Chloe B
Washington, D.C.
"The atmosphere of the castle is magical. You feel like everything you need is here—or maybe you’re being shown that everything you needed was already in you, and this place just revealed it."
Evan H
Tasmania
"An instructor’s small comment—something they may not necessarily think is so impactful—can utterly change how you approach a problem. That’s the power of having so many perspectives."
Eric C
Florida
“Being in a castle was really unique. You could see and feel the history in every space. My view of the Tuscan countryside each morning felt surreal.”
Hank G
Virginia
"The trips we took to Florence were unforgettable. I felt like I was having a special moment in places like the Chapel with Masaccio—it was like we had our own private tour."
Emile M
Canada
"I thought it would be intimidating to be here, but it was the opposite. There are so many talented painters, but everyone just wants to help each other. I got to be vulnerable, humble, and focus on the craft—which was amazing."
Mari G
Norway
“I have never finished an oil painting before coming here. My learning has been rapid, and I feel proud of the progress and results. I’m looking forward to taking my knowledge home and putting it into practice.”
Agenda
April 10 - 24, 2027
*Note: This itinerary is an example designed to give you a sense of the activities and learning opportunities planned. The specific schedule and order of events may vary.
Apr 10
Welcome Dinner
Scheduled shuttle from Florence Airport to the castle. Find your room, and enjoy a warm welcome dinner where you will meet the instructors and attendees. Begin your journey in this captivating setting. and get ready for an immersive experience.
Note: Shuttle transportation from Florence to the castle will be provided at a scheduled meeting point near the Santa Maria Novella Train Station.
Apr 11
Materials
& Drawing Warm-ups
We begin with a lesson on your materials — what they do and why they matter. In the afternoon, we head outside for the first sketches: many quick studies in one area, learning to see the landscape before painting it.
Apr 12
Composition — Finding Your Painting
Using a simple viewfinder, you'll learn to isolate strong compositions inside an endless view. Then you'll put it straight into practice with quick compositional painting studies.
Apr 13
Big Masses & Simple Values
Nature is complex, but good paintings are simple. You'll learn to break the landscape into big masses and paint studies using only three values, building a clear hierarchy of light and dark.
Apr 14
Value + Temperature
Morning studies using only three values teach you to build a clear hierarchy of light and dark. In the afternoon, you'll bring that simplicity into the start of your long term paintings, creating the foundation.
Apr 15
Atmospheric Perspective & Depth
Why do distant hills turn cool and soft? A focused study shows how contrast, detail, color, and temperature fade with distance. Then you'll use it to push real depth into your long term paintings.
Apr 16
Day Trip
Explore the local town and find inspiration for your paintings.
Apr 17
Color Families & Saturation
Mixing the living greens of Tuscany without turning them to mud. We'll organize the landscape into color families through study, then refine the color harmony of your painting.
Apr 18-19
Edges, Brushwork & Texture
Stone, foliage, cloud, and field each ask for a different touch. You'll explore edges and brushwork in quick textural studies, then bring your first painting toward completion with a varied, confident touch.
Apr 20
Scumbling
& Glazing
Demonstrations on glazing and final effects that can help to produce enhanced contrast and depth. Discover how carefully applied translucent layers can create a remarkable interplay of light and shadow. Engage in the final painting sessions, putting into practice the techniques learned.
Apr 21-22
Finishing Touches & Final Evening
Bring your paintings to completion with the final details that make all the difference. From creating a focus to adding little textures and final highlights. This is the stage that brings everything together.
Apr 23
Pack,
Resolve,
Celebrate!
On our final day in the castle, we come together for a meaningful gathering that allows us to reflect on our transformative journey, share insights gained, and engage in philosophical discussions that have shaped our perspectives. Together, we seek resolutions and further our understanding of the profound connections between painting, life, and personal growth.
You will have time to pack and organize your belongings as we prepare for the end of our enchanting stay. In the evening, we come together once again to continue our discussions and celebrate the culmination of your hard work. Embrace the camaraderie and connection that has blossomed throughout the workshop as we toast to your achievements.
Apr 24
Farewell
We will have one final breakfast as a group, then a shuttle will take us all to Florence where we will say our final goodbyes.
The Instructors
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FEATURED PAINTERS
Melisa Calabria
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Melissa Calabria
Master of Color & Sentimentality
Melisa Calabria, born in Buenos Aires in 1993, is an accomplished Argentinian painter whose work has captivated audiences worldwide. She began her painting journey at the National University Institute of Arts (IUNA), while simultaneously studying under private instructors to refine her craft.
In 2019, she became a dedicated apprentice to renowned painter Odd Nerdrum, studying under his guidance and continuing her training in Norway from 2021 to 2022. Her work reflects the timeless techniques and philosophy she honed during this transformative period.
Melisa has received accolades in prestigious international competitions, including:
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Figurativas Competition (Spain)
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ARC Salon (USA)
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Mod Portrait (Spain)
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Royal Society of Portrait Painters (UK)
Her paintings have been exhibited in numerous galleries and are part of private collections across the globe. Today, Melisa shares her passion for classical painting through teaching in her Buenos Aires studio and leading workshops internationally, inspiring the next generation of painters.
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Kristine Onsrud
Drawing Inspiration From Rembrandt to Shejerfbeck
Kristine Onsrud is a highly skilled classical painter whose work draws inspiration from masters like Rembrandt and Helene Schjerfbeck. She began her artistic journey with a BA in Fine Art from Kingston University London, before continuing her training at the renowned Florence Academy of Art. There, she excelled in the program, earning the prestigious Fourth-Year Prize, which allowed her to teach and further refine her painting practice for an additional year.
Kristine’s dedication to classical painting led her to the Nerdrum School, where she had the privilege of living and working alongside Odd Nerdrum, immersing herself in his philosophy and techniques. She later furthered her academic expertise at the Courtauld Institute of Art, a world-leading center for the study of art history and conservation.
Her work has been exhibited internationally and continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Kristine shares her deep knowledge and passion for classical painting through workshops, inspiring painters to connect with traditional techniques and timeless craftsmanship.
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Kristine Onsrud
Nic Thurman
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Nic Thurman
Ethereal Enthusiast
Nic Thurman is an accomplished painter and educator whose work has captivated a global audience, including over 500,000 followers across platforms. His painting journey began in 2014 under the mentorship of the acclaimed classicist Jeremy Caniglia, where he gained invaluable insights into the principles that set classical painting apart from modern art.
Thurman’s commitment to mastering timeless techniques led him to become a pupil of Odd Nerdrum, the renowned master painter and philosopher, from 2018 to 2021. During his time at the Nerdrum School, Thurman refined his technical skills and embraced the philosophy of kitsch painting, deeply influencing his approach. He is also a founding member of the Memorosa Group, dedicated to promoting the eternal values of classical painting.
Driven by an unwavering quest for the eternal masterpiece, Thurman’s work has been exhibited internationally, from New York City to Norway, and is held in private collections around the world. His passion for classical painting continues to inspire and resonate with audiences globally.
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The Venue
Castello di Montalto
Steeped in over ten centuries of rich history, Castello di Montalto exudes an enchanting tranquility amidst its picturesque surroundings. Nestled within reach of local artisans and vineyards, this extraordinary estate offers a harmonious balance between seclusion and convenience. Located a mere hour from Florence, the estate encompasses vast landscapes adorned with an organic farm, spanning over 200 hectares that produces olive oil, honey and cereals. Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Castello di Montalto, where history, nature, and artisanal craftsmanship converge.
Where You'll Stay
The Castle offers a variety of accommodations, including numerous villas, each boasting distinctive bedrooms, bathrooms, and inviting common rooms. Your lodging will be determined by the ticket type you select, providing you with a range of options tailored to your preferences. Choose from a luxurious private villa for ultimate privacy, a private bedroom with an en suite bathroom in a shared villa or a shared bedroom with a shared bathroom, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared experiences. Select the accommodation that best suits your needs and immerse yourself in the unique charm of the Castle.
